Copenhagen Airport (CPH) is the largest international airport in Scandinavian countries. Every year, millions of travelers from all over the world fly via CPH when visiting Denmark or transiting through the airport. Having mobile data access upon arrival at CPH is crucial for many to stay connected, access maps, and inform contacts. Getting a local prepaid SIM card at Copenhagen Airport is often the most convenient way to get connected. Here is a detailed guide on where and how to buy a SIM card when you land at CPH.
Table of Contents
I. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Copenhagen Airport
There are several options for purchasing a prepaid SIM card upon arrival at Copenhagen Airport. The three main locations are:
1. WHSmith store
The WHSmith is located in Terminal 2. It’s open daily from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. This store sells prepaid SIM cards from the main Danish operators including Telenor, Telia, 3 (Tre), and Lebara. Prices range from 99DKK to 149DKK for a prepaid starter pack.
- Opening hours: 6:00 – 22:00 daily
- Location: Terminal 2 – International Arrivals, near Gate A, B
2. 7-Eleven Stores
There are three 7-Eleven convenience stores at Copenhagen Airport located in Terminals 2 and 3. These stores sell Lebara and Lycamobile prepaid SIM cards which cost 99DKK. Lebara provides good value prepaid plans on the Telenor network.
- Opening hours: Open 24 hours
- Location: Arrivals hall, after passport control
- Language Support: English
3. SIM Vending Machine
As you wait for your luggage, you can buy Lebara and Lycamobile SIM cards from a vending machine for between 50-80 Danish Kroner. These have limited data/minutes included and require activation on the provider’s website.
So in summary, the recommended options are to purchase an SIM card from the WH Smith shop or the 7-Eleven shop, both located in the arrivals terminal at Copenhagen Airport. The vending machine is an option but requires more work to activate.
II. Copenhagen Airport SIM Card Options and Costs
Here is an overview of the main prepaid SIM card options available for purchase at Copenhagen Airport and their estimated costs:
SIM Card Option | Cost (USD) | Data / Minutes Provided |
Oister SIM (WH Smith shop) | ~$7 | 50 Kroner credit (100MB data or 100 minutes) |
Lebara SIM (7-Eleven) | ~$7 | 10 Kroner credit |
Lebara 10 hours/60GB bundle (top up) | ~$14 | 10 hours calls, 60GB data |
Vending machine SIMs | ~$5-8 | 200MB data, 50 minutes |
As you can see, Lebara and Lycamobile offer the most economical prepaid plans using the Telenor and TDC networks. Purchasing the starter pack from stores like 7-Eleven or vending machines is the cheapest option.
III. What You Need to Prepare for Getting a SIM Card at Copenhagen Airport
Here are some tips on what to have ready when purchasing a prepaid SIM card upon arrival at Copenhagen Airport:
- Passport: Your passport is required for identification to buy a SIM card in Denmark.
- Unlocked phone: Your phone must be unlocked to use a Danish SIM. Check with your home carrier that your device is unlocked for international use.
- SIM card size: Have ready a standard size or nano SIM for modern phones. The store can cut down regular SIMs if required.
- Danish currency: Have some Danish Kroner (DKK) to pay for the SIM card and top-up. ATMs are available at the airport.
- Power adapter: Bring a universal adapter to be able to charge your phone in Denmark. The standard voltage is 230V.
Being prepared with these items will ensure you can easily purchase and install a Danish prepaid SIM card at Copenhagen Airport when you land.
IV. eSIM as an Alternative to SIM Card at Copenhagen Airport
Skip the hassle of physical SIM cards at Copenhagen Airport and travel with ease using eSIM instead. eSIM provides a convenient, flexible, and secure mobile connectivity solution for your time in Denmark:
- Download your eSIM before your trip and enjoy reliable 4G/5G data, voice, and SMS services from local carriers
- Stay connected without the need to swap physical SIM cards or worry about compatibility
- Embrace the future of mobile connectivity with a seamless, adaptable eSIM experience
- Avoid the lines and fumbling with SIM card trays at the airport
- Ensure you have the right connectivity from the moment you arrive in Copenhagen
Embrace the benefits of eSIM and make it your go-to choice for mobile access at Copenhagen Airport and beyond.
V. FAQs
Can you get a SIM card at Copenhagen airport?
Yes, you can easily purchase a SIM card at Copenhagen Airport. Major providers like 3, Lebara, and Lycamobile have kiosks and stores throughout the terminals. Prices start around 100 DKK for prepaid SIM cards with data, minutes, and SMS. The airport has a good selection of SIM card options for travelers.
How much do prepaid SIM cards cost at Copenhagen airport?
Prices range from 99DKK to 149DKK for prepaid starter packs which include local call credits. Lebara and Lycamobile offer the most economical SIM options.
Can I buy a SIM card landside at Copenhagen airport?
No, SIM card stores are only located airside in the arrivals halls. You must pass through immigration first.
Is ID required to buy a SIM card at Copenhagen airport?
Yes, a valid passport or EU national ID card is required to purchase and register a prepaid SIM card.
Do Copenhagen airport shops sell eSIM?
No, physical stores only sell regular SIM cards. eSIM would need to be ordered online before your trip.
VI. Final Words
Get a prepaid SIM card at Copenhagen Airport for easy connectivity in Denmark. Carriers like Telenor and Telia offer coverage, Lebara and Lycamobile have cheaper data plans. Compare plans beforehand and have your passport, unlocked phone, and Danish cash to get a SIM upon arrival. Stay online as soon as you land!